A restomod is a classic car that has been restored and modified with modern parts. The name combines “restoration” and “modification.” It keeps the original look but adds a modern engine, brakes, suspension, electronics and comforts such as air conditioning. Leading builders include Singer (Porsche 911), Eagle (Jaguar E-Type), ICON (Ford Bronco and Toyota Land Cruiser) and Ringbrothers (American muscle cars), and top restomods can cost several hundred thousand dollars or more. High-value restomods are also strong collateral: Borro lends against classic and collectible cars worth $50,000 or more, so owners can raise cash without selling.
Restomod Cars at a Glance
| Builder | Based on | Known for |
|---|---|---|
| Singer Vehicle Design | Porsche 911 (964) | Bespoke “reimagined” 911s with exceptional detail |
| Eagle | Jaguar E-Type | Lightweight, re-engineered E-Types and Speedsters |
| ICON 4×4 | Ford Bronco, Toyota Land Cruiser | Classic off-roaders with modern drivetrains |
| Ringbrothers | American muscle cars | High-powered, carbon-fiber-bodied builds |
| Kimera Automobili | Lancia 037 | The EVO37 rally-inspired restomod |
| Alfaholics | Alfa Romeo Giulia GT | The lightweight GTA-R |
Own a restomod or classic car? Borro lends against luxury, classic and collectible cars valued at $50,000 or more, with loans from $25,000, no credit check and funding in as little as one business day. Get a no-obligation quote or call 720-458-6788.
What Is a Restomod?
A restomod preserves a classic car’s design while upgrading what’s underneath. It differs from a concours restoration, which aims to return a car to exactly how it left the factory, and from a hot rod, which typically changes the look as well as the performance. The goal is a classic you can drive every day, with modern reliability, safety and comfort.
Why Restomods Are So Popular
- Modern power: fuel injection or modern crate engines, and increasingly electric drivetrains.
- Better handling and safety: upgraded suspension, steering and brakes.
- Comfort: air conditioning, modern seats, navigation and audio.
- Reliability: modern electrics and cooling make the car usable year-round.
- Personalization: owners specify colors, materials and performance.
Restomod vs. Original: Which Holds Value?
Original, matching-numbers classics are often valued for authenticity, and modifying a rare car can reduce its collector value. Restomods are valued for the quality and reputation of the builder, the specification and the documentation. Cars from top builders like Singer and Eagle have sold for prices far above most originals of the same model. Average shop-built restomods, however, may not recoup their build cost.
Can You Get a Loan Against a Restomod?
Yes, if the car is worth $50,000 or more. Borro lends up to 50% of the appraised value, with a minimum loan of $25,000. A restomod appraised at $300,000 could support a loan of up to about $150,000. Build records, invoices and photographs help support the valuation.
- No credit check and no personal guarantee. The car secures the loan, and Borro does not ask for personal or business financial statements.
- Fast funding. Once your loan is approved, funds can arrive in as little as one business day.
- You keep ownership. Your car is held in fully insured, secure safekeeping for the loan term and returned when you repay.
- Private and discreet. Borro has lent more than $1 billion to clients across the country and holds an A+ BBB rating.
How It Works
- Tell us about your car. Share the year, the builder, mileage and the amount you want to borrow.
- Inspection. A Borro valuation expert arranges an in-person inspection. Have proof of ownership, service and build receipts and ownership history ready.
- Final quote and funding. Borro sets the valuation, gives you a final loan quote and funds the loan once you accept.
Learn more about Borro’s luxury and classic car loans, read classic car collecting tips, or see our quick guide to what a restomod is.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I borrow against my restomod?
Yes, if it is worth $50,000 or more. Borro lends up to 50% of the appraised value, with loans from $25,000, no credit check and funding in as little as one business day.
What is a restomod car?
A classic car restored with modern performance, safety and comfort upgrades while keeping its original look.
What does restomod stand for?
It combines “restoration” and “modification.”
Who builds the best restomods?
Well-known builders include Singer, Eagle, ICON, Ringbrothers, Kimera and Alfaholics.
Do restomods hold their value?
Restomods from top builders often do; average builds may not recoup their cost, and modifying a rare original can reduce its collector value.
See how much your car could unlock. Borro’s car loans start at $25,000, with no credit check and no personal guarantee. Apply now or call 720-458-6788 to speak with a valuation expert.
